Pātea River – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Pātea River in Taranaki Region. Here you can view recent temperature trends on a 30-day chart, check typical monthly water temperature ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. A 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of swimming suitability are also included.

Current Water Temperature

13.3°C

Today

13.7°C

Yesterday

15.5°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Pātea River today is 13°C.

Water Temperature in Pātea River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ River water between 10 and 15°C is cold but manageable for short swims, especially on sunny days with warm air temperatures. The moving nature of a river can make the water feel colder than the actual reading, particularly in shaded or deeper sections. Casual swimming is usually brief, with wetsuits often preferred. Windy or cool weather can significantly reduce comfort, even when the air temperature is mild.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Pātea River have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Pātea River will be 11.6°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Water Temperature Data

Date	Current	Average	Forecast
May 6	13.6°C	11.3°C
May 7	13.6°C	11.3°C
May 8	15.5°C	11.3°C
May 9	15.5°C	11.3°C
May 10	15.6°C	11.3°C
May 11	15.6°C	11.3°C
May 12	15.4°C	11.3°C
May 13	13.7°C	11.3°C
May 14	13.3°C	11.3°C	13.3°C
May 15		11.3°C	13.1°C
May 16		11.3°C	12.8°C
May 17		11.3°C	12.6°C
May 18		11.3°C	12.3°C
May 19		11.3°C	12.1°C
May 20		11.3°C	11.8°C
May 21		11.3°C	11.6°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of New Zealand to improve accuracy.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Today	Yesterday	A Week Ago
January	14°C	19°C	24°C
February	12°C	18°C	24°C
March	13°C	17°C	21°C
April	9°C	14°C	18°C
May	7°C	11°C	15°C
June	5°C	10°C	14°C
July	6°C	10°C	13°C
August	6°C	10°C	14°C
September	8°C	12°C	16°C
October	9°C	13°C	17°C
November	11°C	16°C	20°C
December	13°C	18°C	22°C

Pātea River: Weather Forecast

May 15

3°C / 16°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 10 km/h

May 16

2°C / 15°C

clear sky

rain: 0% | wind: 12 km/h

May 17

0°C / 15°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

May 18

1°C / 16°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 4 km/h

May 19

0°C / 17°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 7 km/h

Location & Local Information

Source: • location Mount Taranaki • coordinates 39°18′26″S 174°06′36″E Mouth: • location South Taranaki Bight • coordinates 39°46′24″S 174°29′22″E Length 105 kilometres

The Pātea River in the Taranaki Region flows from the slopes of Mount Taranaki and inland hill country before reaching the Tasman Sea at the town of Pātea. Water temperatures vary through the seasons, influenced by rainfall, reservoir releases upstream, and coastal conditions near the mouth. In winter, the river is generally cool, with temperatures around 9–12°C. During spring, readings typically rise to between 12 and 16°C. In summer, especially in slower-moving stretches and near the lower reaches, water temperatures can reach about 17–21°C on warm days. Autumn usually sees temperatures easing back to around 13–17°C. After heavy rain, cooler runoff from surrounding farmland and hills can temporarily lower temperatures and increase flow.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is generally allowed in suitable parts of the Pātea River, and locals often make use of calmer pools and the estuarine area in summer. The most comfortable swimming conditions are usually when water temperatures approach or exceed 18°C and river levels are steady. However, swimmers should be mindful of currents, deeper holes and variable water clarity after rain. Choosing recognised swimming spots and avoiding periods of high flow helps reduce risk. As with many New Zealand rivers, it is sensible to check local water quality information before heading in, particularly following rainfall.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Pātea River?

The water temperature in Pātea River today is 13°C.

What is the water temperature in Pātea River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Pātea River at Wangi Wangi typically range from 12°C to 24°C.

Is it possible to swim in Pātea River (Taranaki Region)?

You can swim in parts of the Pātea River, but conditions vary — the lower reaches are tidal with strong, changeable currents and the water can be cold and murky, while some upstream pools are calmer but not consistently monitored. Always heed local signage and council or iwi advice, avoid swimming after heavy rain when bacterial levels rise, and swim with a buddy or wear a lifejacket if you’re unsure of depth or current.